Second Mosquito-Borne Virus Detected in Kent County Within Two-Week Period
GRAND RAPIDS, MI. (June 16, 2026) — Through routine mosquito surveillance, the Kent County Health Department (KCHD) has confirmed the presence of Jamestown Canyon virus (JCV) in mosquito samples collected from ZIP code 49504 (Grand Rapids). This marks the second mosquito-borne virus detected in Kent County this summer, following West Nile virus detections in two ZIP codes earlier this month. This is the first detection of JCV since 2024.
No human cases of either virus have been identified at this time.
"These early findings tell us that mosquito season isn't just starting—it's already well underway in our community," said Sara Simmonds, Director of the KCHD's Environmental Health Division. "As residents spend more time outdoors this summer, we encourage everyone to stay informed and take simple preventive steps to protect themselves and reduce the risk of mosquito bites."
Transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes, JCV is found throughout much of the United States, but most cases are reported from the upper Midwest. While many people infected with the virus experience no symptoms at all, about half of those who become symptomatic are hospitalized. Illness ranges from mild flu-like symptoms—such as fever, fatigue, and headache—to more severe neurologic disease, including encephalitis or meningitis.
Since there is no vaccine or specific treatment for JCV, the best way to protect yourself and your family when mosquitoes are present is by following these simple tips:
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Use insect repellent with 10-35% DEET, and always follow label directions
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Wear long sleeves and pants to limit skin exposure
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Avoid outdoor activity during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active
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Eliminate standing water around your home—refresh bird baths, wading pools, pet bowls, and empty small containers regularly
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Keep screens and gutters in good repair to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home
KCHD’s Mosquito Surveillance Team will continue to monitor local mosquitoes for JCV, WNV, Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) virus, La Crosse virus, and St. Louis encephalitis virus through late September—when populations tend to decline significantly.
To learn more about mosquitoes and the diseases they carry, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. For more information or to schedule a media interview, please email Christina Anthony.
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